British scientists have managed to reverse memory loss in mice during research that sheds new light on the processes driving communication breakdown in the brain.

A team from University College London (UCL) unlocked a key mechanism behind brain connectivity and memory by studying a molecular chain of events driven by a protein called Wnt, which has an important role during brain development.

To unpick the role of the Wnt pathway in Alzheimer’s, researchers focused on a second protein called Dkk1, which is known to block the action of Wnt.

“Preventing or reversing the disruptions in connectivity and communication between nerve cells in Alzheimer’s would be a huge step forward.”

Professor Patricia Salinas, UCL

The team used mice in which the Dkk1 protein can be switched on, disrupting the action of Wnt. To avoid any disruption to normal brain development driven by Wnt and Dkk1, the researchers waited until the mice were adults before switching on Dkk1 in an area of the brain important for the formation of new memories.

Switching off memory problems

When they switched on Dkk1 in the adult mice, the researchers found the mice had memory problems, and that this coincided with disrupted communication between nerve cells. The mice also had fewer synapses – communication points where nerve cells are connected – between nerve cells, indicating a communication breakdown.

However, when the researchers switched Dkk1 back off, the mice no longer had memory problems, the number of synapses returned back up to normal levels and communication between nerve cells was restored.

Professor Patricia Salinas, who led the team, said: “Understanding the role of Wnt in Alzheimer’s disease is an important next step, as there is potential we could target this chain of events with drugs. Preventing or reversing the disruptions in connectivity and communication between nerve cells in Alzheimer’s would be a huge step forward.”

Dr Simon Ridley, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “Researchers are taking huge steps forward in their understanding of what happens in the brain in health and disease, and we must now capitalise on these discoveries to deliver effective treatments that can transform lives,” he said.

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